Ensuring a fairer, more competitive Sydney Airport

The Albanese Government is building a more competitive aviation sector, with a bill before parliament this week to further reform the allocation of slots at Sydney Airport. 

The bill introduces a strengthened compliance regime to better crack down on slot misuse, with significantly stronger consequences than the current system. 

The reforms introduced through this legislation are the main competition reforms recommended by the Harris Review, which was received by the former Government in 2021, but never implemented.

They will deliver a more competitive, transparent and efficient slot system at Sydney Airport, which – as the nation’s busiest airport – will improve competition nation-wide. 

The reforms include: 

• Modernising the compliance regime with penalties that address anti‑competitive behaviours, including four new civil penalties for slot misuse behaviour which could issue civil penalties of up to $99,000 per offence
• New reporting requirements for airlines and the slot manager on slot allocations and use, such as cancellations and irregular movements
• Strengthening enforcement tools for the government to monitor airlines more closely and take effective legal action where necessary
• The introduction of a recovery mode to support the recovery of operations following a significant disruption 

The changes introduced through this legislation represent the most significant reforms to the Sydney Airport Demand Management system in 25 years.

They also build upon work already underway, including an independent audit of slot usage.

This reform package will enable a more competitive, transparent and productive aviation network for years to come.